2023 Lucid Air - "Reduced Propulsion Power" Warning and CEL

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Nicole W. · rep 0 · May 22, 7:25 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 Lucid Air Grand Touring

Hey everyone,

I'm hoping someone here has experienced this or can offer some insight. I have a 2023 Lucid Air Grand Touring, and yesterday while driving on the highway, I suddenly got a "Reduced Propulsion Power" warning message on the main display. Simultaneously, the check engine light came on.

The car immediately felt sluggish, with noticeably less acceleration. I managed to get it home, but I'm hesitant to drive it again until I understand what's going on. I tried restarting the car a few times, but the warning and CEL persist.

Has anyone with a Lucid Air encountered this specific issue? Is this a known software glitch, or could it be something more serious with the high-voltage system? Any advice on what to check before calling service would be greatly appreciated.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Experiencing a "Reduced Propulsion Power" warning along with a Check Engine Light (CEL) on your 2023 Lucid Air Grand Touring is definitely concerning. This indicates a detected fault within the vehicle's high-voltage or propulsion system that is significant enough to limit performance and trigger a diagnostic trouble code (DTC).

Here are the steps you should take and what might be causing the issue:

  1. Initial Checks (Limited):

    • Charging Port: Briefly inspect your charging port for any visible debris or moisture, though this is less likely to cause a propulsion error while driving.
    • Recent Software Updates: Confirm if any recent over-the-air (OTA) software updates were installed. Sometimes, a pending or incomplete update can cause temporary communication issues.
  2. OBD-II Scan:

    • The most crucial next step is to get the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) read. While a generic OBD-II scanner might show a basic P-code, an EV-specific scanner or Lucid's proprietary diagnostic tools will provide more detailed information. Common codes related to propulsion power reduction in EVs might include:
      • P0C2D: Drive Motor 'A' Inverter Performance
      • P0AA6: Hybrid Battery Voltage System Isolation Fault
      • P0A0F: Engine Not Starting (can be generic for propulsion system issues in EVs)
  3. Potential Causes:

    • High Voltage Battery System Issue: This could range from a cell imbalance, a faulty battery management system (BMS) sensor, or an internal fault within the battery pack.
    • Inverter/Motor Control Unit (MCU) Malfunction: The inverter converts DC battery power to AC for the electric motors. A fault here, either software-related or hardware, can severely impact propulsion.
    • Electric Motor Fault: While less common, a sensor or internal issue with one of the drive motors could trigger this warning.
    • Cooling System Problem: Overheating of the battery pack, motors, or power electronics can lead to a power reduction to prevent damage.
    • Communication Bus Error: A fault in the communication network between critical EV control modules can cause various systems to report errors.
  4. When to See a Shop:

    • Immediately. Given the "Reduced Propulsion Power" warning and persistent CEL, it is highly recommended to contact Lucid service as soon as possible. Do not attempt to drive the vehicle if the power reduction is severe, if you hear unusual noises, or smell anything burning.
    • Lucid vehicles are complex, and these types of warnings require specialized diagnostic equipment and expertise. Attempting to clear codes without addressing the root cause can lead to further issues.

At the service center, technicians will perform advanced diagnostics, which may include software re-flashing, component testing (battery, inverter, motor), and detailed analysis of the high-voltage system. They are best equipped to safely and accurately diagnose and repair this type of issue.